People in Barzakh, according to Islamic belief, are in a state of waiting between their death and the Day of Judgment. The experiences and activities within Barzakh vary based on an individual's deeds in their earthly life.
Understanding Barzakh
Barzakh is an intermediate realm. It isn't Heaven (Jannah) or Hell (Jahannam) but rather a transitional phase. Souls reside here until the resurrection.
Activities and Experiences in Barzakh
The experiences in Barzakh are not uniform. They are influenced by a person's faith and actions during their life.
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The Questioning: Immediately after death, two angels, Munkar and Nakir, are believed to question the deceased about their faith, God, and prophet. The ability to answer these questions correctly determines the initial comfort or torment.
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Rest and Peace: Righteous individuals who lived a life devoted to God, performed good deeds, and adhered to religious principles experience peace, comfort, and tranquility. Their graves may be widened, and they may receive glimpses of the blessings that await them in Paradise. They are described as being in a state of peaceful slumber or joyful anticipation.
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Punishment and Torment: Those who were disbelievers or committed grave sins may experience punishment and torment in their graves. This could involve physical or spiritual suffering, reflecting the consequences of their actions. Their graves may feel constricted, and they might be shown visions of the hellfire.
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Waiting for Judgment: Regardless of their experience, all souls in Barzakh are essentially waiting. They await the Day of Judgment, when they will be resurrected and judged by God for their deeds, ultimately determining their final destination: Paradise or Hell.
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Connection to the Living: Some Islamic scholars suggest that the deceased can still be aware of and, in some ways, connected to the world of the living. This connection might manifest through the prayers and supplications offered on their behalf by their loved ones. The impact and nature of this connection are subjects of scholarly debate.
Summary
In short, what people in Barzakh are doing depends entirely on their past life. The righteous experience comfort and anticipation, while the sinful may endure punishment as they await the final judgment. All souls are in a state of waiting.
